VI
EN
Lesotho, South Africa
Southern African countries are famous among tourists for their wine and turquoise beaches. But few people know about Lesotho, a South African territory. Surrounded by the Republic of South Africa and bordered by high mountains, Lesotho is like a kingdom isolated from the rest of Africa and is often referred to as the "Kingdom of the Sky".
With its predominantly plateau terrain, impressive waterfalls and canyons, and over 300 days of sunshine a year, Lesotho is a fantastic destination for adventure seekers. The kingdom is also one of the few places in Africa where snow can fall. Come here to hike across the plateau, meet indigenous tribes living in yurts and caves, or explore Tsehlanyane National Park and go skiing at Oxbow in the winter.
Egypt
For many, Egypt isn't an attractive destination due to the fear of terrorism and violence. However, in reality, violence against tourists is rare. Therefore, tourists can hire a local guide to explore Cairo, including Egypt's oldest churches such as the Moallaqa (Hanging Church) and the Abu Serga Mosque. Additionally, other attractions in downtown Cairo, such as the Kunst Gallery and café or Kafein, are also popular choices.
Mongolia
With its stunning grasslands and tradition of hospitality, Mongolia is one of the world's best destinations for adventurous travelers. You can ride the world's longest train journey – the Trans-Siberian Railway – from Moscow (Russia) to Beijing (China) or enjoy the scenery by going on a horseback ride. If you visit in June, you can experience the Naadam festival and witness competitions between archers, horsemen, and wrestlers.
Türkiye
From bombings to unrest along the Syrian border, Türkiye is gradually becoming more of a dangerous place than a tourist destination. However, Türkiye remains an attractive country for visitors thanks to its impressive culture and beautiful natural landscapes.
In the ancient city of Urfa, you can explore its vast labyrinths and bustling markets. Venturing outside Urfa, consider staying in a Kurdish village homestay to experience life with locals, learn how to bake bread, and cook their traditional dishes.
Guyana
Located east of Venezuela and north of Brazil, Guyana is one of the smallest countries in South America. With only about 3,000 tourists visiting each year, this has allowed its natural landscapes to remain remarkably unspoiled.
Influenced by South America and the Caribbean, Guyana is a culturally rich place. Visit the capital, George Town, to enjoy the food, drink rum, and listen to Calypso music, or explore Kaieteur National Park to admire one of the world's most magnificent waterfalls – Kaieteur Falls, which is 226 meters high (five times taller than Niagara Falls).
Haiti
Over the past decade, Haiti has endured numerous hardships, including the 2010 earthquake and the Zika virus, which have severely impacted tourism. However, for travelers seeking to explore unique cultures, Haiti remains one of the most ecologically and historically fascinating destinations in the Caribbean.
Haiti impresses visitors with its turquoise beaches near the capital, Port-au-Prince, La Visite National Park, and Parc Macaya. In addition, food enthusiasts can visit roadside eateries offering local dishes such as white rice with black bean sauce, Haitian patties, bread with grilled goat meat, and sample various rums at the Barbancourt Rum Distillery on the northern border of the capital.
Moldova
Central and Eastern Europe have been desirable tourist destinations for decades. But only recently has Moldova, a small country nestled between Ukraine and Romania, gained international attention due to its thriving wine trade and the stunning scenery of mountains, rivers surrounding its towns, and magnificent castles.
The most famous town in the country is Cricova, north of the capital, with its vast, labyrinthine wine cellars. Here, you can enjoy delicious meals with fine wines. In addition, the town of Soroca also attracts many tourists with its magnificent castles, inspired by famous architectural works such as the Bolshoi Theatre (Russia), St. Peter's Basilica (Vatican), or the Capitol Building (USA).
